BREAKING: Assistant Commissioner Andrew Holland has been named the commander of the largest police command in New South Wales (NSW) as he leads critical efforts to address rising challenges in law enforcement. This development comes as Holland reflects on a remarkable journey that began decades ago, where his mentorship helped shape one of Australia’s most celebrated Paralympians, Kurt Fearnley.
Holland, who has devoted nearly 40 years to the police force, oversees a vast jurisdiction covering 72 percent of NSW, managing 118 police stations across seven districts. His responsibilities extend from the bustling Blue Mountains to the remote South Australian border, emphasizing the growing demand for effective policing in diverse communities.
Just 12 months ago, Holland took on the role of Western Region Commander, driving over 60,000 kilometers across the state. His weekly schedule is relentless, with visits to locations like Dubbo, Bourke, and Sydney, often receiving up to 20 calls a night as he addresses urgent policing matters.
During his tenure, Holland faced significant challenges, including overseeing the shutdown of Sydney Airport and implementing stringent health orders during the COVID-19 pandemic. He worked tirelessly for seven months straight to operationalize health directives from NSW Health, demonstrating his commitment to public safety.
In April 2024, Holland confronted another crisis when a high-profile stabbing of Bishop Ma Mari Emmanuel sparked riots in Fairfield. His decisive actions, including coordinating the Tactical Operations Unit, helped restore order and led to the establishment of Strike Force DRIBBS to investigate the riots.
Despite recent data showing a drop in overall crime rates in Holland’s jurisdiction, domestic violence incidents have surged nearly 3 percent, consuming approximately 60 percent of police resources. Holland acknowledges the pressing need for more officers, citing a statewide shortage that hampers effective response to emerging crime trends.
“The generational differences in recruitment pose new challenges for the NSW Police Force,” Holland stated. He emphasized the importance of adapting to attract young recruits who view policing as a temporary career phase rather than a lifelong commitment.
As he looks ahead, Holland is committed to enhancing community policing initiatives and fostering relationships that can bridge the gap between law enforcement and the public. His legacy, rooted in mentorship and community engagement, continues to inspire a new generation of officers.
This week, ACM will feature an exclusive Q&A with Assistant Commissioner Andrew Holland, delving deeper into the pressing issues facing Western NSW and his vision for the future of policing in the region.
Stay tuned for more updates as Holland navigates the complexities of law enforcement in a rapidly changing landscape.
